Investigation Update

An animal welfare focused investigation is currently underway. The lead agency in this investigation is the RNZSPCA operating under the Animal Welfare Act. The SPCA have a number of specific powers under this act. The RIU is providing support to the SPCA investigation.

Greyhound Racing New Zealand has provided full support to both the SPCA and the RIU in relation to the investigation. It is important to understand that the investigative process must be allowed to progress and not be undermined.

GRNZ is unequivocal that the integrity of greyhound racing in New Zealand is our foremost priority, that includes a zero tolerance to any proven form of inappropriate animal welfare practice or issue. GRNZ has done all that it can until such time as the investigation is complete. We have not been given any indicative timing as to when this may be. We understand that this is proving to be frustrating for some greyhound racing participants, however, the investigative agencies have to be given time to complete a thorough and systematic investigation.

Once the SPCA investigation is complete and any action taken by the SPCA implemented, the RIU will then be in a position to investigate whether there has been a breach of the Rules of Racing, and advise GRNZ of any action that should be taken.

Until that process has concluded we have to wait and allow the investigation process to continue.